Frostbite

When your skin is exposed to cold for a long period of time, the underlying tissues may freeze and suffer permanent damage. This condition is called frostbite. Commonly affected areas include the feet, hands (especially the fingers), nose, and ears. People with poor circulation, the elderly, people with poorly controlled diabetes, and people with alcoholism are at greater risk for frostbite. Frostbite ranges in severity from mild and reversible to severe with possible permanent tissue death and loss.

DIAGNOSIS

Frostbite is diagnosed when areas of the skin appear gray or pale and feel hard. There may be a lack of feeling in the area, or there may be severe pain. As the frostbitten part warms, a red color may return to the area, and there is usually increased pain.

TREATMENT

When frostbite is present there may also be hypothermia. This is a drop in the temperature of the entire body. It is important to check the temperature and make sure it is normal (98.6° F [37° C]). It is important to warm frostbitten parts as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage. The following steps can be taken to help:

Get out of the cold. Warm hands in your armpits. Cover the nose and ears with gloved hands. Removing the person from a cold environment is the number one priority, if possible.

Do not rub affected areas or use them. Do not walk on frostbitten feet unless it is necessary to get to a warm place.

If emergency help is not available, the frostbitten parts may be submerged in lukewarm water. The water should not be hot.

If pain occurs with warming, this is a good sign. It means circulation is returning. If there is no pain or lack of feeling remains, it is necessary to seek immediate medical help.

After you warm the affected area it is very important that this area is not re-exposed to cold. Stay out of the cold.